The Best Audio Samplers
We compared seven audio samplers on owner ratings, expert reviews, and specs. The Roland SP-404MKII is our top pick for its performance and features.
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The bottom line
The Roland SP-404MKII is our top pick for an audio sampler, thanks to its high owner ratings and strong performance. It's priced at $448 and has speed, display, and programming capabilities. The Akai Professional MPC Live III Retro is a powerful alternative at $1699, but it's significantly more expensive. For a budget option, the Roland AIRA Compact P-6 at $249.99 offers a good balance of features and affordability. The SP-404MKII Linear Wave Sampler and Gig Bag is essentially the same product with added accessories, not a distinct rival.
Roland SP-404MKII Creative Sampler and Effector $448.00
Best overall audio sampler
The Roland SP-404MKII has legendary performance-based beatmaking, speed, and display and pad technology. Priced at $448, it's praised by owners and experts alike. Those needing more power might consider the Akai Professional MPC Live III Retro, but be prepared to pay a premium.
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Roland AIRA Compact P-6 Creative Sampler $249.99
Best budget audio sampler
The Roland AIRA Compact P-6 has a compact and portable design with built-in microphone and chop function. At $249.99, it's a cost-effective choice for those who don't need the features of the SP-404MKII.
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- Roland SP-404MKII Creative Sampler and Effector Best for performance and features 9.0/10 $448.00 Amazon
- Roland AIRA Compact P-6 Creative Sampler Best budget option 8.0/10 $249.99 Amazon
- Akai Professional MPC Live III Retro Portable Music Production Center Best for advanced users, but expensive 8.0/10 $1699.00 Amazon
- teenage engineering EP–133 K.O. II sampler, drum machine and sequencer Good for portability and functionality 7.0/10 $329.00 Amazon
- Akai Professional MPC Sample Portable Sampler Good for ease of use and portability 7.0/10 $399.00 Amazon
- teenage engineering EP–40 riddim reggae sampler and sequencer Unique sound library, limited feedback 6.0/10 $329.00 Amazon
- Roland SP-404MKII Linear Wave Sampler and Gig Bag Same as SP-404MKII with accessories, not a rival 7.0/10 $559.98 Amazon
Who should buy which
The Roland SP-404MKII is for users who prioritize performance and features. The Akai Professional MPC Live III Retro is for advanced users who need more power and are willing to pay a premium. The Roland AIRA Compact P-6 is for budget-conscious users who still want a functional and portable sampler.
Also-rans
The Teenage Engineering EP-133 K.O. II and Akai Professional MPC Sample are good options but fall short in certain areas. The Teenage Engineering EP–40 riddim reggae sampler has a unique sound library but limited user feedback. The SP-404MKII Linear Wave Sampler and Gig Bag is essentially the same product with added accessories, not a distinct rival.